Matthew W. Johnson, PhD, is a senior researcher for the Center of Excellence for Psilocybin Research and Treatment at Sheppard Pratt’s Institute for Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics. He is one of the world’s most accomplished scientists on the human effects of psychedelics and has conducted seminal research in the behavioral economics of drug use, addiction, and risk behavior.  The conversation explores the evolution and impact of psychedelic research, particularly psilocybin and ketamine, over the past 20 years. Dr. Johnson highlights the shift from psilocybin's political casualty status to a multi-billion-dollar industry with FDA approval potential. Psilocybin shows promise in treating tobacco addiction, with a recent study doubling nicotine patch success rates. Ketamine, approved for depression, also shows potential in addiction treatment. The discussion touches on the therapeutic settings, the importance of preparation, and the potential for psychedelics to induce profound, lasting behavioral changes. The conversation also addresses the legal landscape, ethical considerations, and the risks associated with psychedelic use.

0:00:00 - Intro
0:00:13 - Interest in Psychedelics and Early Research
0:03:09 - Behavioral Science & Psychedelics
0:05:20 - MK Ultra and Mind Manipulation
0:07:58 - Therapeutic Setting and Regulation
0:10:07 - Comparison with Traditional Treatments
0:13:19 - Psychedelic Therapy Model
0:16:45 - Music and Environment
0:18:44 - Personal Reactions and Screening
0:23:15 - Neuroplasticity and Brain Changes
0:30:27 - PTSD and MDMA
0:33:15 - Ketamine & Addiction
0:51:20 - Realizations Under Psychedelics
0:56:20 - Prince Harry & Psychedelics
0:59:15 - Psychosis Risk & Vulnerability
1:03:05 - Pursuing Psychedelics Use & Legality
1:14:01 - Outro

Dr. Matthew W. Johnson link:
https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/matthew-w-johnson-phd/

Chuck Shute link tree:
https://linktr.ee/chuck_shute

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